Improved Task Completion Time Research Articles

An Algorithm to Minimize Energy Consumption and Elapsed Time for IoT Workloads in a Hybrid Architecture.

Advances in communication technologies have made the interaction of small devices, such as smartphones, wearables, and sensors, scattered on the Internet, bringing a whole new set of complex applications with ever greater task processing needs. These Internet of things (IoT) devices run on batteries with strict energy restrictions. They tend to offload task processing to remote servers, usually to cloud computing (CC) in datacenters geographically located away from the IoT device. In such a context, this work proposes a dynamic cost model to minimize energy consumption and task processing time for IoT scenarios in mobile edge computing environments. Our approach allows for a detailed cost model, with an algorithm called TEMS that considers energy, time consumed during processing, the cost of data transmission, and energy in idle devices. The task scheduling chooses among cloud or mobile edge computing (MEC) server or local IoT devices to achieve better execution time with lower cost. The simulated environment evaluation saved up to 51.6% energy consumption and improved task completion time up to 86.6%.

Does Arthroscopic Simulation Training Improve Triangulation and Probing Skills? A Randomized Controlled Trial✰

To determine the effectiveness of simulator training on basic arthroscopic skills utilizing a novel, low-cost arthroscopic triangulation training system. A randomized controlled trial of subjects without prior arthroscopy training was conducted, with participants randomized to receive either a fixed protocol of simulation training on a triangulation simulation model (30 minutes of training for 4 consecutive days), or no training. On Days 1 and 5, all participants were evaluated on 3 simulated arthroscopic tasks by an independent observer. Variables analyzed included how many times portals were changed, the time it took to complete the tasks, and the task completion rate. Arthrex Inc., Naples, FL. Thirty-six participants (92% male, average 28 ± 5 years) with no prior arthroscopy training were randomized into 2 groups, with 17 in the training group (T) and 19 in the no-training group (NT). On Day 1, there was no difference in rate of task completion between the T group and NT groups (41% versus 53%, p = 0.52). On Day 5, significantly more participants in the T group completed all tasks compared to the NT group (100% versus 63%, p = 0.008). Participants in the T group had significantly improved task completion times on Day 5 versus Day 1 (p < 0.05). Participants in the NT group had a significantly improved task completion time for Task 1 on Day 5 versus Day 1 (p = 0.037); no differences were found for Tasks 2 or 3. On Day 5, participants in the T group required significantly fewer portal changes compared to the NT group (2.35 ± 2.29 versus 6.95 ± 8.55, p = 0.039). Simulation training on a simple, low-cost arthroscopic triangulation training system resulted in an overall improvement in arthroscopic probing and triangulation skills within 1 week of training, with significantly decreased task completion times and increased efficiency of movement.

The Tangible Desktop

Audio-only interfaces, facilitated through text-to-speech screen reading software, have been the primary mode of computer interaction for blind and low-vision computer users for more than four decades. During this time, the advances that have made visual interfaces faster and easier to use, from direct manipulation to skeuomorphic design, have not been paralleled in nonvisual computing environments. The screen reader–dependent community is left with no alternatives to engage with our rapidly advancing technological infrastructure. In this article, we describe our efforts to understand the problems that exist with audio-only interfaces. Based on observing screen reader use for 4 months at a computer training school for blind and low-vision adults, we identify three problem areas within audio-only interfaces: ephemerality, linear interaction, and unidirectional communication. We then evaluated a multimodal approach to computer interaction called the Tangible Desktop that addresses these problems by moving semantic information from the auditory to the tactile channel. Our evaluation demonstrated that among novice screen reader users, Tangible Desktop improved task completion times by an average of 6 minutes when compared to traditional audio-only computer systems.

Combining of ETHOS Operating Ergonomic Platform, Three-dimensional Laparoscopic Camera, and Radius Surgical System Manipulators Improves Ergonomy in Urologic Laparoscopy: Comparison with Conventional Laparoscopy and da Vinci in a Pelvi Trainer

BackgroundPosture, vision, and instrumentation limitations are the main predicaments of conventional laparoscopy. ObjectiveTo combine the ETHOS surgical chair, the three-dimensional laparoscope, and the Radius Surgical System manipulators, and compare the system with conventional laparoscopy and da Vinci in terms of task completion times and discomfort. Design, setting, and participantsFifteen trainees performed the three main laparoscopic suturing tasks of the Heilbronn training program (IV: simulation of dorsal venous complex suturing; V: circular suturing of tubular structure; and VI: urethrovesical anastomosis) in a pelvi trainer. The tasks were performed conventionally, utilizing the three devices, and robotically. Task completion times were recorded and the surgeon discomfort was evaluated using questionnaires. Outcome measurements and statistical analysisTask completion times were compared using nonparametric Wilcoxon signed rank test and ergonomic scores were compared using Pearson chi-square test. Results and limitationsThe use of the full laparoscopic set (ETHOS chair, three-dimensional laparoscopic camera, Radius Surgical System needle holders), resulted in a significant improvement of the completion time of the three tested tasks compared with conventional laparoscopy (p<0.001) and similar to da Vinci surgery. After completing Tasks IV, V, and VI conventionally, 12 (80%), 13 (86.7%), and 13 (86.7%) of the 15 trainees, respectively, reported heavy total discomfort. The full laparoscopic system nullified heavy discomfort for Tasks IV and V and minimized it (6.7%) for the most demanding Task VI. Especially for Task VI, all trainees gained benefit, by using the system, in terms of task completion times and discomfort. The limited trainee robotic experience and the questionnaire subjectivity could be a potential limitation. ConclusionsThe ergonomic laparoscopic system offers significantly improved task completion times and ergonomy than conventional laparoscopy. Furthermore, it demonstrates comparable results to robotic surgery. Patient summaryThe study was conducted in a pelvi trainer and no patients were recruited.

Est-ce que la formation sur simulateur permet d’améliorer la triangulation et la précision en arthroscopie d’épaule ? Essai contrôlé randomisé

Introduction The dexterity skills required to perform safe, effective and efficient arthroscopic operations are demanding. A variety of arthroscopic surgical simulation models are available, however, the cost of nearly all available models makes them prohibitive for incorporation into the vast majority of orthopaedic training programs. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of simulator training on basic triangulation and probing skills utilizing a novel, low-cost arthroscopic triangulation training system (ArthroBox, Arthrex Inc., Naples FL). Methods A randomized controlled trial of subjects without prior arthroscopic skills training was conducted. All participants received a demonstration of how to use the arthroscopic triangulation training system and then were randomized to receive either no training or a fixed protocol of simulation training on the simulation model, including 30 minutes of training for 4 consecutive days. On day 1 and day 5, all participants were evaluated on 3 simulated arthroscopic tasks and were assessed by an independent observer. Variables analyzed included which hand the camera was held, which portals the participant initially used, how many times portals were changed, the time it took to complete the tasks and the task completion rate. Statistical analysis was conducted utilizing Student's t -tests, with P > 0.05 denoting statistical significance (OriginPro 9 software, Northampton MA, USA). Results Thirty-six participants (92% male, average age 28 ± 5 years) were randomized into two groups with 17 in the training group (T) and 19 in the no-training group (NT). On day 1, 7/17 participants (41%) in the T group completed all tasks, while 10/19 participants (53%) in the NT group completed all tasks ( P = 0.52). On day 5, significantly more participants in the T group completed all tasks on day 5 compared to the NT group (17/17 (100%) versus 12/19 (63%), P = 0.008). Participants in the T group had significantly improved task completion times for all 3 tasks on day 5 versus day 1. Participants in the NT group had a significantly improved task completion time for task 1 on day 5 versus day 1; no differences were found for tasks 2 and 3. On day 5, participants in the T group required significantly fewer portal changes compared to the NT group (2.35 ± 2.29 versus 6.95 ± 8.55, P = 0.039). Conclusions Simulation training on a simple, low-cost arthroscopic triangulation training system resulted in an overall improvement in arthroscopic probing and triangulation skills within 1 week of training, with significantly decreased task completion times and significantly increased efficiency of movement.

A diagrammatic framework for intuitive human robot interaction

This paper presents our framework for human robot interaction. The framework has been designed to allow non- experts to control and program complex robots in an intuitive way that is both reliable and accurate. The principle mechanism behind our model is Augmented Reality (AR), we use this to provide a diagrammatic service to the user, the service uses a range of diagrammatic markers including marker-less AR objects, which can be created and connected together and used to command and control the robot and engage in two way communications. We report on two case studies where our framework is applied to a set of command and control tasks, we measure performance across situation-awareness, task-completion-time and cognitive-load. Our results show that our model leads to greater situational awareness and improved task completion times, when compared to conventional interaction methods, such as a gamepad controller. Future work will integrate our model into multi-modal hybrids and extend the case studies to compare against other interaction methods.

Application of the Statistical Process Control Method for Prospective Patient Safety Monitoring During the Learning Phase: Robotic Kidney Transplantation with Regional Hypothermia (IDEAL Phase 2a–b)

BackgroundTraditional evaluation of the learning curve (LC) of an operation has been retrospective. Furthermore, LC analysis does not permit patient safety monitoring. ObjectivesTo prospectively monitor patient safety during the learning phase of robotic kidney transplantation (RKT) and determine when it could be considered learned using the techniques of statistical process control (SPC). Design, setting and participantsFrom January through May 2013, 41 patients with end-stage renal disease underwent RKT with regional hypothermia at one of two tertiary referral centers adopting RKT. Transplant recipients were classified into three groups based on the robotic training and kidney transplant experience of the surgeons: group 1, robot trained with limited kidney transplant experience (n=7); group 2, robot trained and kidney transplant experienced (n=20); and group 3, kidney transplant experienced with limited robot training (n=14). InterventionWe employed prospective monitoring using SPC techniques, including cumulative summation (CUSUM) and Shewhart control charts, to perform LC analysis and patient safety monitoring, respectively. Outcome measurements and statistical analysisOutcomes assessed included post-transplant graft function and measures of surgical process (anastomotic and ischemic times). CUSUM and Shewhart control charts are time trend analytic techniques that allow comparative assessment of outcomes following a new intervention (RKT) relative to those achieved with established techniques (open kidney transplant; target value) in a prospective fashion. Results and limitationsCUSUM analysis revealed an initial learning phase for group 3, whereas groups 1 and 2 had no to minimal learning time. The learning phase for group 3 varied depending on the parameter assessed. Shewhart control charts demonstrated no compromise in functional outcomes for groups 1 and 2. Graft function was compromised in one patient in group 3 (p<0.05) secondary to reasons unrelated to RKT. In multivariable analysis, robot training was significantly associated with improved task-completion times (p<0.01). Graft function was not adversely affected by either the lack of robotic training (p=0.22) or kidney transplant experience (p=0.72). ConclusionsThe LC and patient safety of a new surgical technique can be assessed prospectively using CUSUM and Shewhart control chart analytic techniques. These methods allow determination of the duration of mentorship and identification of adverse events in a timely manner. A new operation can be considered learned when outcomes achieved with the new intervention are at par with outcomes following established techniques. Patient summaryStatistical process control techniques allowed for robust, objective, and prospective monitoring of robotic kidney transplantation and can similarly be applied to other new interventions during the introduction and adoption phase.

A Comparison of User-Generated and Automatic Graph Layouts

The research presented in this paper compares user-generated and automatic graph layouts. Following the methods suggested by van Ham et al. (2008), a group of users generated graph layouts using both multi-touch interaction on a tabletop display and mouse interaction on a desktop computer. Users were asked to optimize their layout for aesthetics and analytical tasks with a social network. We discuss characteristics of the user-generated layouts and interaction methods employed by users in this process. We then report on a web-based study to compare these layouts with the output of popular automatic layout algorithms. Our results demonstrate that the best of the user-generated layouts performed as well as or better than the physics-based layout. Orthogonal and circular automatic layouts were found to be considerably less effective than either the physics-based layout or the best of the user-generated layouts. We highlight several attributes of the various layouts that led to high accuracy and improved task completion time, as well as aspects in which traditional automatic layout methods were unsuccessful for our tasks.

Haptic Glove With MR Brakes for Virtual Reality

Haptic gloves open up the world of force feedback by allowing the user to pick up and feel virtual objects in a natural way. In most of the existing gloves, a remote box houses a large number of actuators and sensors. Power to the glove is transmitted via cables. If the haptic gloves were smaller, lighter, and easier to use and control, they could become more common as human-machine interfaces. Recent developments show that actuators based on active fluids, such as the magnetorheological (MR) fluids, can be viable alternatives in haptics. But these devices are desk- or floor-mounted and use relatively large MR brakes. In this research, we developed a compact MR brake that is about 25 mm in diameter, weighs 84 g, and can apply up to 899 Nmiddotmm torque. The compact size was achieved by stacking steel and aluminum rings to create a serpentine flux path through the fluid. Six brakes were used to build a force feedback glove called MR glove. The glove weighs 640 g and does not require any remote actuators. Results of usability experiments showed that the MR glove improved task completion times in grasping virtual objects and could convey stiffness information to the user.

The effect of a telepointer on student performance and preference

While the telepointer has been widely accepted in the Computer Supported Collaborative Work community, little work has been done to quantify its effect on performance and perception. We present preliminary results quantifying the telepointer’s effect on knowledge retention and satisfaction in an online collaboration. In experiments, a remote expert communicated with small student groups to explain an online scanning probe microscope (SPM) interface. The expert used two-way audio–video plus a telepointer to describe the interface to half of the participants, and only two-way audio–video (no telepointer) with the other half. The data show that use of a telepointer improved task completion time tenfold and long-term knowledge test performance by 30–40% on specific concepts. The telepointer group was also more likely to rate the online SPM as a substitute for a local SPM and felt the expert was significantly less distant than did the non-telepointer group.

Use of a Virtual Reality Simulator for Ureteroscopy Training

Virtual reality surgical simulators may shorten operative time and reduce the potential for iatrogenic injury by providing training outside the operating room. We hypothesized that training on a virtual ureteroscopy (VU) simulator would allow novice endoscopists to overcome the initial learning curve before entering the operating room. We evaluated 16 medical students on their ability to perform specific ureteroscopic tasks on a VU simulator. The students trained on the simulator for a total of 5 hours over multiple sessions using different training modules and then were retested on the initial module. Likewise, 16 urology residents with varying degrees of endoscopic experience were assessed on the same test module twice, without additional simulator training. The students improved task completion time from 17.4 to 8.7 minutes (p <0.05), while the residents performed the task in 7.6 minutes at baseline and 6.7 minutes at the second trial. Stratification of residents by years of urology training revealed that the mean completion time for the students after training did not differ statistically from that of first year residents who had performed a median of 14 clinical ureteroscopies. Furthermore, the subjective performance scores of the students were comparable to those of the first year residents. Novice medical students trained on a VU simulator improved task completion time by 50% after training, and performed comparably to residents who had completed nearly 1 year of urology training. VR training may allow beginning urology residents to shorten the initial learning curve associated with ureteroscopy training, although this hypothesis requires further validation.